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Science News for May 19, 2004


HIV takes cellular opportunities to aid infection

Researchers at the Salk Institute have made a breakthrough in understanding how HIV replicates within host cells. The study revealed that molecules exist in cells that help convert HIV's RNA genome to DNA, allowing for the production of new virus particles.

SourceSalk Institute·JournalProceedings of the National Academy of Sciences·DateMay 19, 2004

Genetic barrier to self-pollination identified

Researchers have identified a genetic component involved in the self-incompatibility response of plants. The discovery sheds light on how plants prevent self-pollination and could lead to more efficient methods for producing hybrid seeds, such as hand emasculation being replaced by transgenic approach.

SourcePenn State·JournalNature·DateMay 19, 2004

When bosons become fermions

Researchers at Max-Planck-Institute for Quantum Optics and Johannes Gutenberg-University of Mainz successfully fermionize a gas of bosonic atoms, creating a Tonks-Girardeau gas. The resulting state exhibits unique properties that blur the distinction between bosonic and fermionic behavior.

SourceMax-Planck-Gesellschaft·JournalNature·DateMay 19, 2004

Super-effective 'jumping gene' created

Researchers at Johns Hopkins Medicine have created an artificial jumping gene that can randomly silence genes in mice, offering a new way to study genetic function and evolution. The discovery has the potential to reveal how genes interact with each other and contribute to human health and disease.

SourceJohns Hopkins Medicine·JournalNature·DateMay 19, 2004